Michigan-Made. Innovation-Driven.

Thursday, May 29

Michigan’s Role in America’s Defense
8:45-9:45 a.m. | Brighton Pavilion

Growing Michigan’s defense industrial base is a national priority with strong bipartisan support across all levels of government. This session will explore how Michigan can build on its long, proud legacy as the “arsenal of democracy” to help reimagine America’s national security capabilities and lead defense-related technology and workforce development initiatives.

Featuring: John Gutierrez, Retired Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps and Executive Director, Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation, MEDC; Elissa Slotkin, U.S. Senator (D-MI); Erik Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer, Saab Inc.; and Moderator Jeannine Kunz, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, SME

AI in the Workforce
9:00-9:30 a.m. | MEDC Bar (Geranium Bar)

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity will release the AI & Michigan’s Workforce Plan. Building on the state’s first ever Statewide Workforce Plan, Michigan will unveil its plan for taking advantage of the opportunities for growth presented by widespread adoption of artificial intelligence technologies.

Featuring: Susan Corbin, Director, LEO; Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, Director, MiLEAP; Brian Calley, President, Small Business Association of Michigan; Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President, Regional Development, MEDC.

In the meantime, be sure to visit us online to see all our Mackinac Policy Conference programming and the ways the MEDC can help with your business and community needs.

MEET US THERE